Podiebrad

Podiebrad, George (1420-71), greatest King of Bohemia, was the son of a Bohemian noble, and entered the army at an early age, when his gallantry speedily procured his promotion. In 1444 he became leader of one of the most powerful parties in Bohemia. Being a Hussite, he was twice excommunicated by Pope Paul II. for contumacy. He became regent for the youthful King Ladislas, and on the latter's death was elected king, in spite of the Papal wrath. He forced his enemies to come to terms with him, and gained many brilliant victories over the leagues organised against him.